Azerbaijan’s climate charm offensive is backfiring – POLITICO

When Egypt hosted in 2022, activists used the event to highlight the government’s crackdown on political opponents. Last year saw widespread criticism when COP28 host the United Arab Emirates appointed the man tasked with expanding the country’s oil and gas output to lead the talks. Likewise, the incoming president of COP29 is a former Azerbaijani … Read more

Romania bets on long shot ‘baby nukes’ as coal cliff edge looms – POLITICO

For Burduja, the minister, that means it may be better to work with Washington than against it. “We can aim to be a leader,” he said, but “if technology is developed faster in the U.S. or in the EU, and the EU or the U.S. benefit from it, I think it’s just as good.” But … Read more

Czech industry minister vies to become EU’s next energy chief – POLITICO

Former Estonian Economy Minister Kadri Simson is the EU’s current energy commissioner but is unlikely to retain her role, as her Centre party is no longer in the country’s governing coalition — usually a requirement given the government picks whom it sends to Brussels. Síkela’s political affiliation is more complicated. He serves in the coalition … Read more